East Grand Forks Man Charged in Strangulation Case

East Grand Forks, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — A 22-year-old East Grand Forks man is facing a felony domestic assault charge following an alleged incident involving strangulation.

Felony Charge Filed in Polk County

According to a criminal complaint filed in Polk County District Court, Zechariah Frank Demery, born October 5, 2003, is charged with domestic assault by strangulation.

The charge is a felony under Minnesota law. The complaint lists a maximum possible sentence of up to three years in prison, a $3,000 fine, or both.

The allegations involve an incident reported on June 23, 2026, at a residence on Mars Drive in East Grand Forks.

Authorities say the complaint was filed after an investigation into a reported domestic disturbance. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Mugshot of Zechariah Frank Demery, provided as part of the court record.

Complaint Details Alleged

The complaint states that the alleged victim, identified as R.J., told investigators she had been staying with Demery and their two children.

According to the complaint, an argument began inside the residence. The complaint alleges that Demery assaulted R.J. and restricted her breathing by choking her.

The complaint states R.J. later reported additional contact during the incident that caused difficulty breathing.

Investigators reported observing marks and injuries that included redness near the victim’s ears, a welt near her shoulder and neck area, and a bruise on her knee.

The complaint states R.J. was taken to Altru Health System for treatment.

Defendant Taken Into Custody

Demery was arrested and booked into the Northwest Regional Corrections Center, according to the complaint.

The complaint states that Demery denied that a physical altercation occurred.

Officials reported that witnesses heard arguing but did not report seeing the alleged physical incident.

Previous Court History Listed

A review of court records listed in the complaint shows Demery has no prior criminal convictions in Minnesota.

The complaint also lists previous North Dakota convictions, including driving under the influence, terrorizing an adult victim, and violation of an order prohibiting contact.

The case remains pending in Polk County District Court.

For more Minnesota court information, visit the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.

I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News